Port Norris, N.J. – State Troopers arrested two brothers and recovered numerous stolen items in connection with a recent spate of burglaries in Cumberland County. Jeffrey Fentress, 25 and James Fentress, 27, both of Quail Drive in Port Norris, were arrested on Tuesday, November 12. Trooper Jared Castellari arrested James in front of his home, and troopers located and arrested Jeffrey nearby.

A search warrant was executed by troopers and detectives from Troop A Criminal Investigation Office. In the Camry and the home were found numerous items including a car starter, vehicle batteries, tools, electronics, and other articles described by victims as stolen from their vehicles and boats over the previous week. Also found in the home was suspected crack cocaine and marijuana.

Troopers believe that items some confiscated during this search may be from unreported burglaries. The known crimes involved thefts from vehicles and boats in Maurice River, Fairfield and Downe Townships. Troopers are asking the public to contact the station at 856-785-0036 to report any recently missing items from their vehicles or property.

The investigation was assisted by witnesses who reported seeing the subjects and their car leaving the scene of burglaries and attempted home break-ins.

The two brothers were both charged with burglary, theft, criminal attempt, possession of stolen property, and possession of CDS. Jeffrey Fentress was also charged with eluding because he

fled the scene of the attempted arrest and was located shortly thereafter. They were both charged with criminal mischief because of their behavior in the holding cell, which included urinating on the floor. Bail for James was set at $7500. Bail for Jeffrey was set at $2500. They were lodged in Cumberland County jail in default of bail.

“In addition to the great work of the troopers and detectives on this case, it was solved because of some important tips from community members who wanted to keep their neighborhoods crime free,” said Lt. Ed Murphy, Port Norris Station commander. “Those people who see something, but would rather not get involved are only inviting crime to come knocking on their door next. Crime thrives where the timid outnumber the brave,” he added.

The charges are merely accusations and the suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

James Fentress

Jeffrey Fentress

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